Red-hot Astra Outguns Ford RS

Based on the three-door bodyshell, this ultimate incarnation of the Astra is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels and an outrageous bodykit, which is finished by a specially designed rear spoiler to improve aerodynamic downforce. And our sources at Vauxhall have hinted that the final production version could have some even more extreme styling features to appeal to youthful buyers.

However, the VXR won't be all show and no go. Under the bonnet, the range-topping Astra will come with the same engine as the lightweight VXR220 roadster. What's more, thanks to a stronger six-speed gearbox, the manufacturer has been able to reliably tune the 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant to produce a massive 240bhp and 310Nm of torque. That's 23bhp more than the two-seater - and makes the newcomer the most potent hatchback in its class.

No official data has been released, but Vauxhall's own target figures suggest drivers can anticipate a 0-60mph time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 150mph. The highly tuned engine is sure to deliver impressive in-gear performance, too, which the transmission allows you to take full advantage of.

Without the option of four-wheel drive, the company's chassis engineers have worked hard on suspension and damper settings to ensure the VXR has the handling to match that of the class leaders. Should all else fail, the Astra will also come with a hi-tech electronic damping control system called IDS Plus.

Based on the chassis technology introduced on the Vectra, this helps to prevent torque steer and understeer in extreme driving conditions. Inside, both driver and passenger can expect to be held in place no matter what the situation by Recaro sports seats, while a number of other eye-catching additions will grace the VXR's cabin.

As well as a special steering wheel and gearknob, there's Piano black trim on the dashboard for a more upmarket finish. Further touches include drilled alloy pedals and chrome-ringed dials.

Price lists are still being kept under wraps, but the new model is tipped to weigh in at less than ΂£20,000. While that might look expensive compared to the ΂£16,250 Honda Civic Type R, the Volkswagen Golf GTI will cost ΂£19,995 - and it delivers 'only' 200bhp. Another competitor will be Ford's powerful Focus ST, but the blue oval's offering, also expected to be around ΂£20,000, won't enter the fray until later in 2005.

The Astra VXR was unveiled with Opel badges as the HPC - it stands for High Performance Concept - at this week's Paris Motor Show, but UK customers won't be able to get their hands on any Vauxhall variants until next August. It will initially be available only as a three-door, with a five-door to follow.

For those who can't wait that long, the firm is offering a beefed-up version of its 200bhp five-door Astra SRi. This comes with a special bodykit and 18-inch wheels, and costs ΂£18,145 - that's a ΂£950 premium over the standard car.